Response to Reviews!

UltimateCCC: Maybe…

Jeet Granger: Thanks for the lengthy review! I like reviews which boast quite a bit of words and points! I agree on the aura part. I think its idiotic how humans gain powers like Pokémon without any proper reason. They don't even do anything to earn that!

Poke-ranger21: Thanks for the love and support.

Mark Andrew: Our duo is very close to each other as friends. They're young and probably don't understand it. About Snivy, you'll have to wait and see. I haven't thought much about her yet.

Ahmed (Guest): Thanks for the support!

With that done, let's begin!

Xxx

Water & Grass!

To reach Cerulean Peak, where Bill lived, the duo of trainers had to cross Route 24 and Route 25 which would take around noon to cross. Ash and Cynthia, figuring they had enough time to reach Bill's Sea Cottage, decided that they would take the time training and move tutoring.

Since both routes were filled with trainers who were around their level, they could provide invaluable experience to the duo and help prep Ash for Misty. Plus, Ash needed to battle a few times with Seadra as well.

Speaking of which…

Ash tossed the Water Type's pokéball, calling out the Dragon Pokémon. Seadra came out, balancing easily on his round tail, and looked at Ash confusedly.

"Hey Seadra." Ash said, crouching in front of him. "My name's Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town. We met yesterday at the ocean, remember?"

Seadra's eyes glimmered as he remembered his defeat and snorted deplorably. Ash could see the sadness from his expression and made to quickly fix it.

"Look Seadra," He began. "I know a lot about your species and how they eventually evolve into powerful, regal Kingdra." Seadra listened to him curiously. "But do you really think you can find a Dragon Scale in these waters?"

Seadra thought about it and then snorted a no. "You're pretty strong. You defeated my starter Eevee so easily! But…" He took a breath and then continued. "If we combine forces, I can help you become the most powerful Kingdra in due time." Seadra looked at him in surprise.

"You can only travel so far and learn so much on your own but if we journey together, fight together, eat together etc. then we both will benefit. And once I get a Dragon Scale, you can complete your goal of being a Kingdra."

Ash had no idea where he'll even find one, but he knew than one day he'll find one and help Seadra acquire his goal. "In turn, you can help me become the strongest trainer. So, what do you say?" Ash questioned. "Want to become a part of my team?"

Seadra contemplated it. As a Pokémon capable of using Dragon Type moves and living alone, Seadra pretty much valued strength over everything else. His dream of evolving into a Kingdra and gaining its fearsome power meant he could rule over everyone!

But if an electric mouse could defeat him under a human's guidance, then he knew the boy had power. And he respected power. What the boy said was true. He could only become so strong alone.

But…

His power and the boy's mind. Combined, he could be the strongest! No one could defeat him once he evolved into a Kingdra, yes, but sealing the pact with the boy meant he could become even stronger.

Plus, getting to prank him was an added bonus.

Seadra intentionally delayed his response, watching Ash's reaction and his tense posture. Then, as an answer, he sprayed the boy with a Water Gun.

Ash yelped in surprise as the cold water hit him and fell on his butt. Seadra began to make a strange sound that was presumably his way of laughter.

"Yeah, yeah." Ash grunted, getting up and trying to wipe the water off his face. "Real funny." He heard a snicker behind him and saw Cynthia trying to control her laughter. "What was so funny in that?!"

"You squealed like a baby!" She responded with barely suppressed giggles. Ash rolled his eyes at her. "C'mon, admit it. That was funny." He ignored her to regain what dignity he had and turned towards the prankster.

"So Seadra." Ash began. "Do you want a nickname?" The Dragon Pokémon nodded immediately. Ash was surprised at the quick response. He began to call off a few names to which Seadra replied in negative. Ash continued until Seadra found one he liked.

"Oceanus?" Seadra nodded at that one. "So Oceanus it is!" The newly named Oceanus whinnied in happiness and blasted Ash back with another Water Gun.

Ash wiped the water off quickly and continued his talk. "Later on, we'll be battling trainers. They have Pokémon like us. I want to understand your fighting style and build some sync between us before we fight Misty. So are you ready?"

Oceanus whinnied again. "Let's take breakfast first and then we'll continue. In the meantime, I'll like to introduce you to my family." He grabbed his pokéballs and threw them, revealing his small yet formidable allies.

Eevee, Zeus and Skylar came out with their respective greetings. Ash smiled at them and gestured to Oceanus. "Eevee, Zeus, and Skylar, meet Oceanus. Oceanus, these are our brothers and sisters."

He looked back to his shoulder towards Cynthia. He gestured her over with a quick wave. The blonde walked forwards and stood next to him.

"And this is Cynthia." He began. "I think she'll introduce herself better." He flashed a grin. Cynthia nodded and crouched to Oceanus's level.

"Hey Oceanus." She said, scratching him on his pectoral fins. Oceanus relaxed at her soft touch, even leaning into her hands. "My name's Cynthia Carolina. I'm from Sinnoh, a region far from here. My goal is to be a Pokémon Professor. And I want to earn knowledge through Pokémon Training."

Oceanus whinnied in response. Cynthia then got up, leaving Oceanus down and called out her Pokémon. Fenniken, Nidoran, and Roselia came out, giving greetings of their own.

"Meet Fenniken, Nidoran, and Roselia." She introduced. "Guys, this is Oceanus. He's the latest member of our family so make sure to put your best first impression."

"Let's go grab our food." Ash told the blonde. She nodded and the two left for the cafeteria while their Pokémon conversed and settled amongst each other.

Time to begin the journey.

Xxx

Route 24 was full of trainers just like they thought. Ash decided to test Oceanus out against the trainers and he managed to take out two Pokémon of one out before being switched out. Eevee, Zeus, and Skylar likewise won without much difficulty.

Cynthia's Fenniken suffered a bit trouble against the Water Types due to the typing but the fire fox managed to pull through. The blonde knew she was about to evolve due to the random pink flashes and burst of energy from her hence all the battles.

Nidoran was also close to evolving. She didn't have much chances battling with him but Route 24 provided the best opportunities. The blonde noticed his increased aggression and his more potent venom as telltale signs.

Roselia was as graceful as always. Due to her type advantage, she could single-handedly defeat Pokémon coupled with Cynthia's strategic thinking. That's why the blonde had her battle against non-water types for some increased difficulty.

Right now though, Ash was just winding up a battle.

"Shadow Ball!" Ash ordered. Eevee yipped and fired off the ghostly sphere. The opposing Cubone batted it away with its bone club and rushed her.

"Use Bone Rush!" Ash's opponent ordered. Cubone's club elongated and it swiped at Eevee.

"Double Team into Quick Attack!" He countered. "Then use Iron Tail!" Eevee yipped and, dodging the first swipe, burst into a dozen copies. They all ran around Cubone, confusing the Ground Type.

Then the real Eevee rushed from behind and slammed a Quick Attack boosted Iron Tail into Cubone, sending the Ground Type sprawling back. She then jumped and slammed her Iron Tail again into his stomach, knocking him out.

"Cubone!" The trainer yelled in alarm. It was clear he had lost. Eevee panted heavily, nursing the bruises on her body. Cubone had gotten some clean hits in and clearly gave her a run for her money.

"That was one intense battle." Ash commented as Eevee padded over to him. Crouching down and scratching behind her ear, Ash earned a pleased yowl from the Evolution Pokémon.

"You're one heck of a trainer." His opponent chuckled. "Not many trainers can defeat me, especially after the training I did in Rock Tunnel. That's where I got Cubone from."

"Rock Tunnel huh." Ash whispered to himself. He could get himself a Ground Type there. The man walked away after returning Cubone, presumably to the Pokémon Center. Ash brought out a potion and sprayed it over Eevee's wounds, making her wince a bit.

"Easy." Ash whispered. Healing her up, Ash returned her to rest up in her pokéball and got up.

"We still have a couple hours of walk from here." Cynthia reminded him. "I also need to catch the elusive Water Type so I suggest we hurry up."

"How's Fenniken?" Ash questioned. Cynthia grinned at that.

"She's so close to evolving!" The blonde squealed. "Her random psychic bursts prove it. All I can do now is keep battling with her and let it trigger. That's how evolution works anyway."

"You'll need an evolution anyways." Ash commented. "After all, I have three Pokémon in their second stage. You need to catch up." He boasted jokingly.

"Who has the Cerulean Badge?" The blonde questioned.

"I'll get one tomorrow." Ash retorted cheekily.

"And who has foreign Pokémon?" The blonde added innocently.

"I have Eevee-" He was interrupted.

"But no foreign Pokémon. So shut up." Ash wisely did.

They continued on, battling trainers all the while and getting valuable experience. Ash let Eevee see one of Fenniken's battles and her usage of Bite. It wasn't that hard of a move and Eevee was able to get the basic idea down in her next fight. Next up for her was Refresh. Roselia could somehow help when they got the chance.

Zeus was working on his Volt Tackle in the next couple of fights and he was getting better at it. Ash had initially thought of making him learn Wild Charge first but it dealt more recoil and wasted more energy. Volt Tackle was the best option he had. Coupled with that, Ash wanted him to learn Shock Wave as well.

It would be great to track down the speedy Dewgong Misty loved to use.

Skylar was learning Agility. Since she knew Quick Attack, learning Agility was a piece of cake. Coupled with that, Ash wanted her to practice her flying skills. Razor Wind and Air Slash were only useful if Skylar had mastery over her flight.

Ash initially wanted to teach Oceanus Hydro Pump. It became evident after the first use, however, that it was out of his level at the moment and he'll have to try later. In place of that, the Seadra was practicing Icy Wind and his current moves.

After a few hours of walking and battling, the duo of trainers decided to rest a bit. Ash used his bag as a pillow to relax while Cynthia scoured through her pokedex.

"What'cha searching?" Ash questioned.

"The whereabouts of the Pokémon." She responded. "They say it's near a small detour on Route 24. And the Pokémon is very strong." She looked at Ash a bit warily. "Do you think Roselia would be able to catch it?"

"Maybe." Ash responded with a shrug. "You need to weaken him up and maybe trap him. Then you can defeat him. If you cannot do that, though, it'll be very difficult to defeat it."

"True." Cynthia frowned in thought. "The spot is about a fifteen minute detour from our current position. Let's go."

"Sure." Ash got up and stretched. "Let's move!"

Xxx

The spot was more like an extension of Route 24 that an actual spot. It was an outcropping opposite Route 25 with a few wild Pokémon, mostly water type, and water. The duo presumed it was from the river that went through Mt. Moon. Geography was difficult to learn.

"Here we go." Cynthia took a deep breath as she finished setting her fishing rod. Throwing it in the water, the blonde sat down and waited patiently. Ash stood a bit back, Zeus at his feet.

Cynthia had released Fenniken to attack the elusive Pokémon as soon as she reined him in. "Be careful." Ash warned her. "Wild Pokémon are not above hitting humans. They think its fair game."

"I know." The blonde mumbled back. 'Take the bait… take the bait… take the bait…' She chanted in her mind. After about five minutes, there was a tug on her rod.

Zeus and Fenniken both tensed as Cynthia began to expertly handle it. The blonde gritted her teeth as resistance found its way to their struggle. "Ash, a little help here." She grunted.

Ash sped to her side and grabbed the rod. "On the count of three." The blonde told him. Ash nodded, keeping a steady hand on the rod. "One, two… three!"

The duo jerked the rod back with all their strength. The Pokémon was sent sailing out of the water above them. Fenniken reacted instantly.

She sped up using Flame Charge and, smashing into its belly, gnawed her teeth into his neck using Bite. She spun and threw him on the ground, climbing onto him and howling intimidatingly.

The Pokémon froze at the howl for a moment and Fenniken was able to use her Hypnosis. Unfortunately for her, the Pokémon recovered in just a moment and spat a powerful Water Gun on her face.

Fenniken squealed and the pokémon sped away using Aqua Jet. Cynthia got up and kept a trained eye on him. "Fenniken! Use Flame Charge now!" Fenniken recovered quickly and raced after the fleeing Pokémon.

To the blonde's surprise, the Pokémon wasn't running away. Spinning around after seeing Fenniken's Flame Charge, he slammed head on with the fox.

His Aqua Jet overpowered the Flame Charge due to Type Advantage and higher strength and Fenniken was sent tumbling. The Pokémon broke out of his Aqua Jet and flipped his tail.

A Sonic Boom struck Fenniken and sent her flying near Cynthia. The Pokémon landed and unleashed three arcing beams. Cynthia's eyes widened as Fenniken was struck by all three. She yowled in pain and struggled to get up.

The Pokémon didn't hesitate for a moment and sped forwards with an Aqua Jet. Cynthia quickly called out Roselia. "Energy Ball!" The Thorn Pokémon formed the attack and threw it towards the Aqua Jet. Both collided and the Pokémon was sent out.

The blonde got her first look on the Pokémon and gasped when she recognized it. "A Buizel!?" She narrowed her eyes. The Buizel growled and spun his tail challengingly.

Roselia narrowed her eyes back and stood protectively above Fenniken. Cynthia scooped Fenniken up in her arms, returning her back to her pokéball quickly.

Buizel raced forwards again, an Aqua Jet. "Energy Ball!" She ordered. Roselia fired off the attack towards Buizel. The Sea Weasel Pokémon actually rotated mid Aqua Jet and slammed into the surprised Roselia. Roselia quickly grabbed his torso and used a close range Poison Sting.

Buizel winced as the poison entered his system and tried to toss her off. Roselia, however, outbalanced him and slammed him into the ground. She hugged him tight and used Mega Drain.

Buizel let out a pained cry as he felt his energy sap out and opened his mouth. Frost cloaked around his teeth and he bit down on Roselia's neck.

Roselia let out a pained cry in turn but didn't let up. Cynthia watched with baited breath as the two began a battle of attrition. Roselia had Buizel poisoned, pinned down, and was draining energy out of him while Buizel was biting through her neck with Ice Fang.

"Keep it up!" Cynthia supported. Buizel, however, had other plans. He slammed his tail down on the ground, using Sonic Boom to boost himself up. He somehow managed to flip Roselia below him and encased his fists in ice.

Cynthia winced when his fist made contact with Roselia's face. The Thorn Pokémon spat out her counterpart of blood at the first punch. Buizel continued to punch her while Mega Drain worked its effect.

Cynthia bit her lower lip at the vicious attacks. She wasn't sure whether Roselia could pull through or not. All she knew was that Roselia was getting serious damage.

Roselia could fight back, however, and blasted Buizel with an Energy Ball. Buizel snarled in pain and Roselia slammed another Energy Ball into him. Buizel was thrown off her and landed roughly away from her.

The Thorn Pokémon got up, using Synthesis to heal the damage dealt to her. Buizel struggled to get up, the poison in his system and the Mega Drain having drained him completely.

Cynthia threw a pokéball towards him. Buizel, even in his weakened state, tried to spit an Ice Beam. Roselia blasted him with an Energy Ball before he could do that.

The pokéball hit him and sucked the Sea Weasel inside. Even weakened to the point of fainting, Buizel declined to fall. The pokéball shook violently for thirty seconds of baited breath before dinging.

Cynthia let out a breath and sat down, breathing heavily. Ash grinned amusedly at her reaction and sent Zeus to gather the pokéball. The Pikachu congratulated the battered Roselia and nuzzled her joyfully before moving to grab the ball.

"That was one intense capture eh?" Ash questioned the blonde. Cynthia nodded. "Reminds me of Oceanus."

"Oceanus isn't that rough or vicious in attacking." The blonde reminded him. "He's bulky and a ranged fighter. Buizel prefers up close physical fighting." Cynthia's hand instinctively brushed near the base of her neck.

"You haven't forgotten that have you?" Ash sighed. Cynthia shook her head. The blonde closed her eyes as the memory hit freshly.

The poisonous fangs of the Crobat sunk into her flesh as if hot knife through butter. A young Cynthia shrieked in pain as the Crobat delivered potent venom into her veins.

"Not so brave now!" A shady figure roared. "My excuse of a-"

Cynthia felt two hands wrap around her and pull her in. "Sh." Ash consoled her. "You're safe, don't worry about him." Cynthia didn't even know she was shuddering until now. She nodded and took a deep breathe.

Roselia and Zeus looked at her in concern. "I'm okay." Cynthia said as Ash pulled back. "Just a bad memory. Okay?"

Buizel's Ice Fang had brought back bad memories for Cynthia. That was all Roselia and Zeus knew. Judging from Ash's worried expression though; it was more than simply a bad memory.

"You're gonna talk to Buizel right now or later?" Ash changed topics. Cynthia considered it.

"Later." She answered. "Fenniken and Roselia need healing and we need to get to Bill's Sea Cottage. Route 25 is moderately sized and a lot of trainers would want to battle."

"True." Ash rolled his shoulders. "Let's go!"

Xxx

After a few hours of battling and nonstop walking, Ash and Cynthia reached the Sea Cottage. Sweaty and tired, the duo knocked on the door.

"Who's there?" Was the response after a few moments.

"Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town." Ash responded. "Professor Oak should've told about me." There was no response, only the sound of the lock unlocking. The door opened to show a middle aged man wearing a lab coat.

He scanned Ash and Cynthia for a few moments before blurting. "This is the Ash Professor Oak spoke so highly about?" Ash blinked for a few moments at the evident insult.

"Yeah?" He said, taken aback a little. Bill stared into his eyes making him very uncomfortable and then stepped aside.

"Come inside. I don't have much time." He walked away leaving Ash and Cynthia outside.

"What the hell?" Cynthia whispered. "That's the famed Bill? Inventor of the Pokémon Storage System?"

"Seems like it." Ash replied. "C'mon." They walked inside and winced at the condition of Bill's Sea Cottage. It was a complete mess.

"Excuse my mess of a lab at the moment." Bill told them. "And ignore my cold reception too. The past few weeks have been… stressful." Cynthia nodded sympathetically.

"I know what it feels like." She told him.

"Really?"

"Nope."

Ash cracked a grin at that. "Where's Snivy?" Bill reached into his pocket and pulled out a black pokéball with a golden strip at the middle button.

"Stay careful Ash." Bill warned. "She's wild." Bill threw the pokéball and energy pooled out of it. Ash stared at the light fearlessly as it materialized into a green snake with brown eyes.

Ash knew that this was Snivy. After all, he had researched its species and learned as much as he could in one night. Snivy was curled up, resting her head on her tail. Ash thought she looked cute.

And the next moment Snivy leapt straight at him.

Her tail elongated in a Leaf Blade and she spun in the air, poised to strike him. Ash reacted quickly, ducking and letting Snivy fly over him. He jumped to the side, knowing Snivy could've planned a follow-up.

He was right as two green vines almost hit him. Snivy snarled and wanted to attack again when Ash called out Eevee. "Calm down Snivy." Ash spoke softly.

Eevee yipped against Snivy harshly, daring it to strike again. Ash kneeled down and scratched behind her ear consolingly. "Easy girl." Ash whispered. Snivy looked at Cynthia and Bill and then back to Ash and Eevee.

Ash whispered something to his starter and Eevee nodded. The Evolution Pokémon walked towards Snivy, stopping when Snivy flashed a vine dangerously. He yipped to show she didn't mean any harm and managed to make Snivy relax.

Ash watched as the two began to interact. Bill looked at the duo of Pokémon curiously while Cynthia looked at Ash with a questioning look. Ash mouthed 'tell you later' to which she obliged.

Eevee finished talking to Snivy and gestured to Ash. Ash, taking that as his cue, began to speak. "Snivy. My name is Ash Ketchum. I'm from Pallet Town. Me and my team are on a quest to be the strongest trainers in Kanto and then the world. Would you like to join us?"

Snivy growled angrily. "You seem pretty powerful and can definitely hold your own against powerful adversaries." He began. "But I don't want you for your power." Ash approached her.

Snivy's tail elongated and sharpened at that. Ash held his arms up in peace. "I know what you're capable of pretty well." He crouched in front of her. "But you don't know what I'm capable of."

Snivy bristled dangerously. How dare he?! That filthy, vile male had the balls to challenge her? She'll show him how capable she was for sure! "I'm sorry."

Snivy blinked at that. For all her years of torment and preparation for expecting the unexpected, that was new. He was sorry? For what?

"I'm sorry you had to suffer for no apparent reason." He continued softly. "You feel bad when everyone looks over you, right? They think you're a possession, an object, a means to be powerful."

Snivy didn't reply, her expression stony. She was curious to what this filthy male had to say. According to the Eevee, he was worth listening to.

"You don't like that, do you?" Ash asked. "You want to prove your worth to everyone in this world. Right? That you aren't an object that can just obtain. That they are the mightiest in the world. Don't you desire to wipe the smug look off their faces?" Snivy slowly nodded.

Ash stretched a hand out to her. Snivy looked at him calculatingly, waiting for any sudden moves or anything. "Lemme ask you Snivy." He carried on. "Do you trust me?"

Snivy snorted at the question. Off course she didn't! Just cause he could talk smoothly and move quickly didn't mean he earned her trust!

"You don't." Ash said, hiding any disappointment. "I expected that much." Ash sighed and sat down. "What do I have to do to earn that trust?"

Snivy made a chuckling sound at that. Earn her trust? Was he for serious? She'll die horribly rather than trust anyone, let alone a male!

Ash didn't show any emotion, knowing he was trudging on thin ice. "Let's make a quick deal then." Snivy stopped laughing and looked at him amusedly. "You can travel with me for a few days. If you think you can trust me, then you can continue to travel with me. If don't, you're welcome to leave anytime you like."

Snivy thought about it. That sounded like an ok deal to her. But what was the guarantee he wouldn't back out of his words?

"The Luxury Ball has a setting that allows the inhabitant to go inside and outside at any matter or moment. You can even leave whenever you want to. The Luxury Ball would erase your signature from its database." That piqued her interest.

She thought for a few moments before nodding. Better free in the wild than dead. They considered her dangerous! For a simple trait she was gifted from birth!

And then this guy asks her to trust her.

Neat.

As Ash bargained with Snivy, Professor Bill was healing up Cynthia's and Ash's Pokémon. The entire day of battling had tired them out and the blonde was tempted to spend the remaining day here.

She saw Ash finish talking with Snivy and returning her to her pokéball. Ash handed Bill the pokéball so he could transfer ownership and smiled at Cynthia.

"Not bad huh?"

"You really are something else!" Bill exclaimed. "Snivy never listened so intently or took such interest in anyone, let alone a male! Professor Oak was right all along!"

"Maybe." Ash said, cheeks heating up a bit at the praise. "I would've liked to spend some more time here but I need to get back to the Pokémon Center and train my Pokémon a bit."

That was true. Eevee needed to learn Refresh and Double Edge for coverage. Zeus needed to focus more on Volt Tackle and try Shock Wave. Skylar needed more evasive and dexterity in her flight and learn Defog as well as Agility for higher speed. Oceanus needed to learn Icy Wind and then Ice Beam for coverage against Grass Types. That was what they could do at their current level.

About Snivy, he had no idea. The League said she was strong due to her ability to activate Overgrow on will but her skill level was most probably at the lowest. He'll have to work with her once she was comfortable with them.

"You know, I heard somewhere that spacing away is the sign of an idiot." Cynthia commented innocently. Ash snapped out of his thoughts and quirked an eyebrow at the blonde.

"Blondie." He replied maturely.

"Flirt later. Here's your Luxury Ball." Bill snapped them out of their fun. The duo blushed at his accusation and glared at the professor.

"We- we're not flirting!" Cynthia stuttered.

"Sure you're not." Bill chuckled. Ash took the Luxury Ball in his hand and tossed it up and down.

"She's mine?" Ash questioned. Bill nodded. "See you later then Professor Bill." The duo made for the door when Cynthia made her final jab.

"Hopefully next time you'll be more clean." Ash couldn't resist and burst into laughter. Cynthia would never let anyone else get the final laugh.

He was sure of it.

Xxx

The two reached the Pokémon Center after a couple of hours of walk and a few battles. Going straight to their room, they collapsed on their beds.

"I'm spent." Cynthia mumbled.

"No wonder genius." Ash replied. "I'm releasing my Pokémon." Ash said, clicking open all of his pokéballs. Eevee, Zeus, Skylar, Oceanus, and Snivy all came out. "Do whatever you want. I'm sleeping." Ash informed them.

Cynthia did likewise with her Pokémon and told them the same. Fenniken, Nidoran, Roselia, and Buizel came out. It was only after Buizel made a battle cry did Cynthia realize what she had done.

"Hey Buizel." Cynthia began. "My name is Cynthia Carolina. I'm your trainer now. I'm sure we'll get along just fine. Now try to be civil and don't fight with anyone. Please?"

Buizel regarded her for a few moments before nodding. If she was strong enough to defeat him, she earned his respect. Cynthia waved at him before collapsing back on her bed.

Buizel blinked. She was that tired?

The nine Pokémon began to converse among each other animatedly. Only Snivy and Buizel stayed back. The former because she didn't like civilizing with anyone and Buizel because…

He liked to be cool.

Eevee, mistaking Snivy's quietness as shyness, introduced her to everyone. Snivy blinked as everyone tried to talk to her. She quickly used Vine Whip to escape them and sat on the foot of Ash's bed.

Snivy then pointedly told them to stop annoying her and go back to their useless chatter while she did something useful. Also known as sleeping.

Zeus's cheeks sparked in annoyance but he didn't provoke her any further. Eevee had told them beforehand about Snivy's behavior so it was a bit easier to swallow.

Only a bit easier, mind you.

Eevee, in an attempt to stop any fight from occurring, switched topics to the upcoming gym battle. Oceanus told them that Ash planned on using him and Eevee against Misty.

They knew how strong Oceanus was due to the battles today. Buizel inwardly snorted at the praise the Seadra was getting. He'll show that overgrown seahorse who the strongest Water Type here was tomorrow!

The chatting went like that for the rest of time before everyone went to sleep.

Xxx

"So, we're getting what for mom?" Ash asked. The duo were roaming around the market, searching for something good to get Delia.

"Didn't we decide on the Water Stone sculpture?" Cynthia asked. Ash shrugged.

"It's your choice what to buy and what not to." Ash gave her a cheeky grin. "So brainstorm."

"And why is it my choice and not yours?" The blonde inquired. Ash just stared at her.

"Because you're a girl?" Cynthia shook her head at this response. The two roamed the market, chatting and window shopping. At last they found the shop they were looking for.

"Cerulean Blues." Cynthia read. "My pokedex said they sell beautiful souvenirs."

"C'mon already." Ash rolled his eyes and pushed Cynthia inside. The duo looked around the beautiful displays of jewelry, sculptures and more and were mesmerized.

"Hello there." The duo looked at the woman and were surprised to find none other than the receptionist at the gym.

"Aren't you…" Ash began.

"Daisy Waterflower from the Cerulean Gym?" She asked. "Yes."

"What are you doing here?" Cynthia questioned. Daisy cocked her head at the question.

"Wouldn't the shopkeeper be at their shop?" The blonde questioned. Seeing their startled looks, she laughed. "You're so oblivious. This is my shop, Cerulean Blues, and these beautifully crafted objects are my own creations."

It took a few more lines of conversation and more clarification before Ash and Cynthia were able to finally understand what Daisy was saying. "But why are you running a shop if you already have the gym and your shows?"

"This is more like a hobby of mine." Daisy responded. "I love to show my handiwork to anyone interested so the money's just a side bonus." They nodded in understanding.

"Though you would be making a great deal of money." Cynthia commented as she read the price tags on a few pieces. Daisy simply laughed.

"You won't believe how many pieces I give away to people." Seeing their questioned looks, she continued. "You know how Misty battles at the gym?" They nodded. "I like battling too." She admitted. "But since she's so passionate at it, I do the battling here. I let trainers fight me and if they win, then I let them take a sculpture we previously decided on a very low price."

"Meaning if we want to take one, we'll just have to fight you?" Ash questioned. Daisy pursed her lips.

"Better yet, I want to ask you something. Answer it and you can take any two pieces no matter the price." The duo was surprised at that.

"Um… ok?" Ash replied hesitantly.

"What's the question?" Cynthia asked, an analytical look in her eyes.

"How did your friendship begin?" She asked. "You're very close so it's obvious you know each other for a long time. So spill."

"…that's all?" Ash asked in surprise. Daisy nodded.

"That's… really convenient." Cynthia passed her two cents. Daisy shrugged.

"It is what it is. Now are you gonna reply or not?" Daisy pressed. Ash and Cynthia exchanged a glance before beginning.

Flashback…

A lonely Cynthia sat in her room, bored and sad. She and her mother had just shifted to Pallet Town, and she had no friend to talk to. Her mother tried coaxing her into joining the other kids in their game but she denied.

How could she even fit in with them? They were all happy, cheerful, and… she didn't have any words. While she was withdrawn, gloomy, and a bookworm.

Maybe she would fit with the rumored smartest kid in Pallet Town, Leaf Verdant, seeing their common love and lust for knowledge. Or maybe she can just spend her spare time with Professor Oak.

There was a knock on the door. It was easy to hear since her room was on the bottom floor. "Cynthia!" Her mom called out. "Can you answer the door?"

"Ok." Cynthia got up and walked over to the door. "Who's there?" She called out, peering through the hole.

"Hello?" A voice answered back. "We would like to meet with… um, what's her name again?" She could've imagined someone face faulting outside.

"Cynthia Carolina Ash." A voice, presumably female, chided. "How could you forget something so basic?"

"I told you, he was the wrong person to consult." Another voice, this one male, teased. "Especially his mess up this morning."

"That was not my fault!" Ash countered. "You could've helped me you know!"

"And miss the epic moment? No way." Cynthia felt left out and awkward again.

"Um…" She began.

"Oh yeah." Ash turned back to the door. "Is Cynthia Carolina home?" Cynthia froze. They were talking about her. What would they want from her?

Panicking, Cynthia hastily replied, "No!" She blurted out loudly, wincing at the harsh tone.

"Um, ok." Ash said back. "Can you tell her that the Pallet Crew were there to recruit her?"

"Yeah." Cynthia replied.

"Thank you." There was a few grumbles on the other side before the three left.

"Who was there dear?" Her mom, a blonde just like her, asked.

"The Pallet Crew." Cynthia replied, remembering her name. "Ash was there."

"And what did they want?" She questioned.

"If- if I was home." Cynthia stuttered. Her mom sighed and walked over to her, crouching to her eye level.

"Dear, how long will you stay all by yourself?" She inquired concerned. "Why don't you try setting in with the other kids? Surely they'll love to play with you."

"The kids yesterday weren't." Cynthia grumbled.

"Not everyone is the same Cynthia." Her mom, Sophie, chided. "Do you think Ash would be like that?"

"N-no." Cynthia admitted hesitantly.

"Then why do you be so shy around him?" Sophie inquired. "Go play with them Cynthia. Enjoy your life."

"But what about-" Cynthia was interrupted.

"Me?" She nodded. "Don't worry about me girl. Go enjoy yourself." Cynthia nodded and slipped her shoes on.

"You know his house address, right?" Cynthia nodded. "Go, you'll meet him on the road most probably." Cynthia left the house, picking up her speed.

Sophie smiled.

She found a boy with messy raven hair, another with spiky brown hair, and a girl with brown hair reaching her back chatting. The messy haired boy looked distraught.

"I told you Ash, it was a mission doomed to be failed." The spiky haired brunette told him. "Everyone has a different nature, not everyone is the same."

"At least I tried!" Ash protested. "She'll fit in eventually."

"Ignore him Ash." Leaf told him. "He babbles a lot of useless stuff."

"What is that supposed to mean?!" The spiky haired boy protested.

"I wonder if she'll participate in the Summer Camp." His face brightened. "It'll warm her up with us enough and she can become a part of the Pallet Crew."

"Yeah right." The spiky brunette snorted. "Knowing her, she'll most probably be buried under books like a bookworm."

"Shut up Gary." The girl snarled. "You're no better." Cynthia had reached them by them.

"Yeah right. Ms. Know-it-" The girl stomped on his feet, making him yowl in pain. "Hello." She addressed Cynthia.

"Hi." Cynthia replied awkwardly. The girl didn't seem too much deterred by that.

"You must be Cynthia Carolina." She grabbed her hand and pulled her close to the trio. "My name is Leaf Verdant, he is Ash Ketchum," pointing at the messy haired teen, "And that blabbermouth there is Gary Oak."

"Nerd." Gary grumbled. Cynthia nodded awkwardly. Ash, seeing her hesitance, jumped in.

"Don't worry! You'll be comfortable by the end of the evening! Just relax!" Ash told her. Cynthia took a deep breathe, remembering what her mom told her, and nodded.

"Tell us about Sinnoh." Leaf suggested. "They say it's more chilly there than Kanto." The chats begun there. Including…

"It's way more bearable than Kanto." Cynthia added.

"I'm pretty sure Kanto has its specialty too." Ash said in an annoyed tone.

"I didn't say that!" Cynthia protested. "I was just talking about the temperature and humidity!"

"Ignore him. He's Lance's fan boy. And takes after him in patriotism." Gary inserted.

"There's nothing wrong in being Lance's fan boy!" Leaf retorted. "Better than being the Sensational-"

"Moving on!"

End of Flashback…

"And that's how we met." Cynthia ended. Daisy seemed highly entertained by their story.

"Time to fulfill my end of the bargain." She gestured to the various assortments of sculptures. "Pick any two you like. One each." Ash and Cynthia did just that, picking two.

The blonde picked up a sculpture of a Vaporeon while Ash picked the one of a Gyarados. Showing them to Daisy and thanking her, the duo made for the exit.

"That was oddly convenient." Cynthia said .

"We got our gifts though. Let's send them to mom." Ash replied. "She'll be overjoyed! We'll have the best gifts this time."

"I hope so. Otherwise we'll have to gift nothing short of a Suicune." Cynthia joked. Ash cracked a grin at that.

On that note, let's end the chapter!

Xxx

Hope you guys liked this chapter! Would've uploaded sooner had I not been starved for internet access. From now on, I'll be responding to reviews to show the appreciation I have for your time so be sure to review!

R&R folks! Your King out!

List of Pokémon:

Eevee: Quick Attack, Sand Attack, Shadow Ball. Dig. Iron Tail. Double Team, Swift, Bite. (Detect)

Zeus: Thunder Shock, Nasty Plot, Thunder Wave, Iron Tail. Dig, Double Team, Feint, Nuzzle. (Volt Tackle).

Skylar: Tackle, Quick Attack, Gust, Sand Attack, Aerial Ace, Steel Wing, and Double Team. (Sky Attack)

Oceanus: Water Gun, Water Pulse, Tackle, Smokescreen, Agility, Bubble Beam, Whirlpool, Twister.

Snivy: ?

Cynthia Pokémon:

Fenniken: Scratch, Hypnosis, Ember, Flame Burst, Quick Attack, Flame Charge, Howl, Bite. (Heat Wave).

Nidoran: Tackle, Poison Sting, Confusion, Double Kick, Fury Attack, Peck, Focus Energy.

Roselia: Mega Drain, Growth, Poison Sting, Magical Leaf, Leech Seed, Synthesis, Energy Ball.

Buizel: ?